Together for Noe

It is a miracle that sixteen-year-old Noe is alive. On the afternoon of Saturday July 11th, 2020 Noe’s world was upended. While on his way home from getting something to eat in Hyattsville, Maryland, Noe and his two teenage friends were harassed by a group of unknown perpetrators. Noe was suddenly shot in the neck leaving him unconscious and paralyzed, potentially for the rest of his life. Noe remains in critical condition at a local trauma center.

One of Noe’s friends was also shot, though his injuries were superficial and his complete physical recovery is expected. The traumatic experience has been an immense burden to all those affected.

While Noe's prognosis for full recovery was originally poor, he has thankfully been able to flutter his eyes open and say a few words. Noe’s mother, Vilda, is at her son’s bedside daily where she continues to pray for his recuperation. She had to quit her job to care for her son. It is no surprise that each day is a struggle for Vilda who lost her mother due to COVID-19 in the last few weeks, while Noe lay lifeless in his hospital bed.

This fund has been set up to ease the financial strain on his family due to the emergency hospitalization, surgeries to remove the bullet and stabilize Noe, other medical bills, and post-release medical rehabilitation services that Noe will need. Should Noe survive and be released, his injuries will require out-patient services including physical therapy and mental health treatment to cope with this tragedy. Vilda will also need to buy a home hospital bed, a wheelchair, various other expenses to make the home accessible, and medications. Vilda may also need home-care or nursing support for Noe down the road. While all of this would be a tremendous financial burden on any family, Noe is uninsured which makes his situation worse. 

This fund will further serve to support Vilda, Noe and his sister who have a limited support network and are recent immigrants from El Salvador. Noe’s father abandoned him and later died. Vilda’s mother is now deceased. Vilda is at risk of eviction and has no means of transportation to the hospital other than ride-share, all while the Coronavirus continues.

During his short time in the US, Noe has been a kind, goal-driven high school student who was learning English and staying out of trouble. He looked after his mom and sister with great care; now he needs all the support he can possibly get.

The family is most grateful for anything that can be spared.

8/12/2020 (Update) - Unfortunately, Noe has tested positive for covid-19 but the doctors are monitoring the situation closely. Please keep him in your prayers! 

Also, his mother Vilda is very thankful for the support the family has received so far. Thank you all for sharing and donating! Together we can make a difference!